Tips for Dealing with Stress and Anxiety During Presentations

Note: This article is from blogger Marsha Weisleder, who shares her personal experience dealing with stress and anxiety while giving presentations.

Five tips for dealing with feelings of anxiety and fear during presentations

1. Don't Overburden Yourself

We must not forget that we are human beings, and we all make mistakes, and that's okay. You should know that even experienced coaches get nervous. Before I spoke at the Training 2019 Conference & Expo in Orlando, I remember that I was getting nervous, and that was my second session at a national conference.

I was feeling tense and short of breath; it was like I lost control of my body, and I knew there was only one thing I could control, which led me to my next tip.

2. Try Deep Breathing

Deep breathing is an effective technique for reducing feelings of anxiety because it activates the body's relaxation response and helps it move from the fight-or-flight response to a relaxed response.

Remember, when you feel out of control, the only thing you can control is your breathing, so inhale slowly for a count of three, then hold your breath for a count of three, then exhale slowly for a count of three, and repeat this several times. You will be amazed at the results.

3. Prepare and Train Well

Have you heard the phrase: “Failure to prepare is preparation to fail?” I prefer to practice for the first five minutes so that the opening of my presentation is smooth and I feel comfortable. I don't memorize the opening of my presentation, but I prefer to identify the main points that are easy to explain.

4. Try Positive Self-Talk

Move away from negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones, and remember that experienced coaches get nervous, too. I tell myself this before I even start the session, as it gives me positive motivation. Try it for yourself and see how your mood will completely change.

I have a saying that I've used for over 20 years that you can also use: "I'm glad that I’m  here, you're here, and I know exactly what to say."

5. Change Your Feelings by Changing Your Body Language

This advice comes from Amy Cuddy, Harvard professor, TED Talk speaker, and author of Presence, Bringing your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges. She believes that body language affects the way others see us, but can it change the way we see ourselves? Fortunately, yes, it can.

A power pose is one of the best techniques, so stand with your arms at your waist or stretch over your head for just a few minutes before beginning your presentation, and you will feel more confident, powerful, and positive.

In Conclusion:

These are just five tips for dealing with feelings of stress and anxiety as a presenter, and coaches can use them.